2017 Ram 1500 Safety Report
2017 RAM 1500: Strong crash ratings, but significant owner complaints and 13 recalls for steering, engine, and airbag issues.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Ram 1500
Reliability Score
The 2017 Ram 1500 receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2017 Ram 1500
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Ram 1500:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steering System Failure (Electronic Power Steering) Numerous complaints (154 under STEERING) describe sudden loss of power steering assist, making the vehicle extremely difficult to control, often requiring full rack and pinion replacement. This has led to near-accidents. |
High | Common | 50000-120000 miles |
| Engine Stall/Loss Of Propulsion (3.0l Diesel) Recalls (23V411000, 22V406000) and complaints indicate issues with crankshaft position sensor tone wheel delamination and high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure in 3.0L diesel engines, leading to unexpected engine stalls or loss of drive power. |
High | Occasional | 60000-120000 miles |
| Airbag Inflator Rupture Multiple recalls (e.g., 19V-757, 19V-760) address side curtain airbag inflators that may rupture, propelling metal fragments into the cabin, increasing injury risk. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Transmission Issues (Limp Mode, Failure To Shift) Complaints describe the transmission entering limp mode, failing to shift properly, or experiencing sudden loss of power, sometimes accompanied by warning lights. |
Medium | Occasional | 60000-100000 miles |
| Abs Module Failure Several complaints detail ABS module failures, leading to illuminated ABS/traction control lights, loss of anti-lock braking, and in some cases, inability to use cruise control. Parts are often on backorder. |
High | Occasional | 60000-100000 miles |
| Tailgate Opening Unexpectedly Recalls (19V-811, 19V-812) address power locking tailgates that may unlatch and open while driving, posing a road hazard due to potential cargo loss. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Ram 1500:
The most frequent complaint category, with 154 reports, primarily concerning sudden loss of power steering assist, often requiring expensive rack and pinion replacement.
With 97 complaints, issues include engine stalls, loss of propulsion, and problems related to the 3.0L diesel engine's crankshaft sensor and fuel pump, as highlighted by multiple recalls.
58 complaints, often related to the diesel fuel system, including high-pressure fuel pump failures and fuel starvation, which can lead to unexpected loss of power.
38 complaints, frequently describing transmission issues such as unexpected shifting, entering limp mode, or complete failure to engage gears.
33 complaints, with concerns about airbag warning lights and inflator ruptures, which are also the subject of several recalls.
31 complaints, including issues with air suspension system failures, leading to the vehicle riding on its frame or throwing various warning codes.
30 complaints, with a recurring theme of ABS module failure, leading to loss of anti-lock braking and related safety features.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Ram 1500
Is the 2017 RAM 1500 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 RAM 1500 has good crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star side), but its safety is significantly impacted by 823 owner complaints, including 79 crashes and 77 injuries. There are 13 recalls addressing critical components like airbags, engine, fuel system, and steering, indicating several known safety defects that could increase crash risk.
What are common problems with the 2017 RAM 1500?
The most reported issues for the 2017 RAM 1500 are steering system failures (154 complaints), engine problems (97 complaints, especially with the 3.0L diesel), and fuel/propulsion system issues (58 complaints). Other significant concerns include power train malfunctions (38 complaints), airbag system warnings (33 complaints), and ABS module failures (part of 30 service brake complaints).
Are there any recalls for the 2017 RAM 1500?
Yes, the 2017 RAM 1500 has 13 recalls. These include critical safety issues such as rupturing side curtain airbag inflators, crankshaft position sensor tone wheel delamination leading to engine stalls, high-pressure fuel pump failures, EGR cooler cracks causing fire risk, unexpected tailgate opening, and issues with cruise control and transmission shifting.
How does the 2017 RAM 1500 perform in crash tests?
The 2017 RAM 1500 received a 4-star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars for Frontal Crash, 5 stars for Side Crash, and 4 stars for Rollover resistance. These ratings indicate generally good performance in controlled crash scenarios.
Should I buy a 2017 RAM 1500?
Given the high number of complaints, particularly for steering and engine issues, and 13 recalls addressing significant safety defects, potential buyers should proceed with caution. Ensure all recalls have been addressed and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on the steering, engine, transmission, and braking systems.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While crash test ratings are decent, the 2017 RAM 1500 has a concerning number of owner complaints and recalls for critical components; ensure all 13 recalls are completed and have a pre-purchase inspection focused on steering, engine, and braking systems.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Ram 1500
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Ram 1500. The data includes 823 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 13 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 79 reported crashes, 16 fire incidents, 77 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Ram 1500 an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.